From the MECCA Group Chat: Undercover SPF and Fragrance That Actually Lasts
October 21 | 4 minute read
Words by Izzy Wight
This week’s office beauty talk includes fragrances with longevity, covert SPF and life-changing luxe skincare (hyperbole? We would never).
Scents that go the distance
Did you know that if you wear a high-quality fragrance, you don’t have to bathe yourself in it or scrupulously reapply for the scent to last all day? I didn’t for an embarrassingly long time. Luckily for the nostrils of passersby, I’ve switched from my teenage signature of half a can of Hello Kitty Body Mist in the morning to a few spritzes of something like Mystic Moss EDT by Dries Van Noten (bubbly, citrusy, delicious) or, when I want something with serious staying power, BYREDO’s Mojave Ghost Absolu.
The latter is a scent that MECCA Fragrance Specialist Steven describes as “the most intense expression of the beloved Mojave Ghost scent”. A “sensual, warm floral with comforting woody facets,” Mojave Ghost Absolu is a supercharged version of the iconic original scent. “Not only has BYREDO increased the concentration of the perfume oil, but they have also invested more time in ensuring the purest expression of each fragrant ingredient,” Steven explains.
Another scent with serious longevity, Maison Crivelli’s Tubéreuse Astrale Extrait de Parfum is “an addictive blend of tuberose and vanilla,” Steven tells me. “It’s an extrait de parfum, meaning a highly concentrated fragrance that pushes the boundaries of sophistication and intensity. The extraits from Maison Crivelli offer some of the highest concentrations of perfume oil on the market – they’re like nothing else I’ve ever experienced!”
High-definition skin
Even though I’m a makeup girl through and through, I always pare back my routine when the weather warms up (Melbourne summer can be brutal). In preparation for a less-is-more base, I’m getting my skin into shape with some new additions to the routine. I just want to look effortlessly radiant; is that so much to ask for?
Apparently not, if you have the help of Dr Barbara Sturm, whose Dual Serum has done exactly that. It’s a luxe price point, but I’ve found true joy in adding this hyaluronic acid-based serum to my routine. Dr Sturm claims it helps to reverse the visible signs of ageing – all I know is it gave me almost instantly plumper, luminous skin.
If you’re looking to venture into the world of high-end skincare, I’ve heard (or rather, I’ve read) that Augustinus Bader products are it. As the unofficial President of the Bader Fan Club, MECCA’s Editorial Content Manager Kerri has said The Rich Cream does “everything”. I have a feeling The Cream (its lighter, less rich counterpart) will work better for my skin, but I’ll be testing that theory by gifting myself The Duo starter kit these holidays.
Undercover SPF
As a Queensland-born kid with a Texan mum who will never, ever forget her first (and only) Australian sunburn, the importance of SPF has been diligently drilled into me from early childhood. I remember the dread of Mum’s sunscreen-covered hands coming towards me as she slathered the greasy formula everywhere, leaving a distinctive white – and shiny – cast on my skin.
While any sunscreen is better than none, SPF has come a long way in the last decade. After spending my early years looking like Mark Zuckerberg in that surfing photo, I tend to gravitate towards formulas that absorb quickly, feel invisible and have a natural finish – like Go-To’s new Nifty Fifty Fluid, which has earned a permanent spot on my top shelf.
ALWAYS READ THE LABEL AND FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. Sunscreen is only one form of sun protection. Avoid prolonged sun exposure and reapply as directed.
Fragrance-enhancing body care
If you’re spending the time – and money – investing in your fragrance wardrobe, you should be doing the same for your body care. As MECCA Fragrance Specialist Steven tells me, “Dry skin simply doesn’t hold fragrance as effectively, so pairing a body lotion, cream or oil with your scent will provide the best foundation.”
He suggests layering up with a scent that corresponds with or complements your fragrance. You can go for something distinctly perfumed, like the TOCCA Dry Body Oil in ‘Florence’, or a lighter scent, like OSEA’s new Undaria Algae Body Oil. And the pro secret for a fragrance that lasts forever? A gripping primer (yes, really) – like Urban Decay’s All-Nighter Face Primer – in the areas you’re spritzing.
